Often, this space is used to call attention to the perceived failings and misgivings of a governmental body, operation or elected individual.

But, today we do not come here to bemoan local leaders; rather we come here today to praise them.

The Selma City School Board should be applauded for holding a key personnel discussion in a public venue, rather than hiding behind the veil of an executive session.

While a move to an executive session would have been allegedly unlawful in regards to Alabama’s Open Meetings Law, the free and open discussions board members participated in on a potentially heated personnel issue was refreshing and exactly the type of give and take we expect from elected officials.

Today we do not wage an opinion on whether or not we agree with their final decision. That point is moot.

Today, which is part of the national Sunshine Week, an annual event started to promote better openness in government, we celebrate the process.

We agree such a conversation Tuesday was likely uncomfortable for some to participate in, and we know it was uncomfortable for those being discussed, but being uncomfortable is not an excuse to hide debate from the public.

We also agree there are times when executive sessions are necessary, but the law is written to ensure those reasons are specific and limited.

President Abraham Lincoln offered his input into open government in 1861.

“Let the people know the facts, and the country will be safe.”

We completely agree and couldn’t have said it any better.